The minister of state in the Ministry of Local Government, Kayisire Marie Solange, has praised the dedication and commitment of volunteers who continue to play a vital role in Rwanda’s development.
She delivered this message on Friday, December 12, 2025, as Rwanda joined the rest of the world in marking International Volunteer Day.
The national celebration was held in Rubavu District and brought together more than 500 volunteers representing over 2.5 million volunteers across the country.
This year’s theme, “Volunteerism, our pride,” highlighted the importance of selfless service and the value of community-driven contributions to national wellbeing.
Presiding over the ceremony, minister of state Kayisire commended the efforts of volunteers across key sectors including health, social welfare, education, agriculture, security, disaster response, and environmental protection.
“Volunteers at the village level continue to build this country,” she said. “They care for children and the elderly, support vulnerable families to overcome poverty, fight epidemics, resolve community conflicts, and contribute to development and safety.”
She encouraged volunteers to align their activities with the national hygiene campaign, Isuku hose, emphasizing personal, household, and public hygiene.
Outstanding volunteers recognized
Individuals and groups who demonstrated exceptional service in 2025 were honored during the ceremony.
Those recognized individually included Nshimiyimana Flavier, a Red Cross volunteer in Gisenyi known for his commitment to emergency response, and Mukashema Berthe, a long-serving volunteer with the National Electoral Commission.
Also honored were Rwagasore Faustin, a village leader who mobilized residents to construct a paved road, and Mbarushimana Augustin, a mutwarasibo acknowledged for addressing community welfare challenges in Rubavu sector.
In the group category, KOPINDABU, a youth volunteer cooperative that has saved over Rwf 2 million, received recognition. AMANI, a Red Cross volunteer group engaged in poultry farming where each of its 60 members holds shares worth Rwf 2 million, was also awarded.
Other awardees included Dukomere ku buzima, a cooperative of community health workers involved in cattle rearing and potato farming, and Koperative Kiaru, a reserve force cooperative supporting security at ports, busy public areas, and in the fight against smuggling in border sectors.
Significance of International Volunteer Day
International Volunteer Day is celebrated globally every December 5, but Rwanda observed the event on December 12 this year.
The day is dedicated to recognizing the contribution of volunteers in advancing community welfare, security, economic growth, and sustainable development.
It was established through United Nations General Assembly Resolution A/RES/40/212, adopted on December 17, 1985, which designated December 5 as the annual day to promote and celebrate volunteerism worldwide.
The aim of the day is to raise awareness on the value of volunteerism, strengthen collaboration between communities and institutions, and inspire more people to contribute to sustainable development at local, national, and international levels.
